Dolly Parton's America

Dec 3, 2019

A university course delves into the complexities of Dolly Parton's influence in American culture, sparking debates on identity and stereotypes. The podcast explores the impact of Dolly's literacy program on student identities and challenges perceptions of Southern accents and country stereotypes. Embracing authenticity and heritage, the discussion sheds light on staying true to one's roots in the face of external perceptions.

40:29

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Quick takeaways

Dolly Parton's portrayal challenges and reinforces Southern stereotypes based on differing student perspectives.

Historical origins of hillbilly stereotypes in Appalachia shaped by post-Civil War narratives and media representations.

Deep dives

Dolly Parton's Influence on Students

Students at the University of Tennessee discuss the impact of Dolly Parton on their lives. They share personal stories about encountering Dolly's work and how it shaped their identities. Some students feel validated by her unapologetic Appalachian identity, while others question her portrayal of stereotypes. The discussion delves into the complex relationship between Dolly's representation of the South and how it influences perceptions and self-perception.

Introduction

3min

Exploring Dolly Parton's Cultural Impact

9min

Exploring the Influence of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library on Students' Identities

3min

Challenges and Perceptions of Southern Accents

22min

Challenging Country Stereotypes and Embracing Southern Identity

2min

Exploring Authenticity and Accents in Country Music

3min

At the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, we drop in on a history class called “Dolly Parton’s America.” (We borrowed the name for our series!) Taught by Dr. Lynn Sacco, the class is filled with college students who grew up in rural Appalachia, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college. Dr Sacco gives the class an assignment: Write an essay that answers the question “What is Dolly Parton’s America?” Lurking just behind that question are thornier ones about Southern shame and identity and hillbillies and football and...well, Dolly. Is Dolly helping or hurting us? The class splits down the middle.

Editor’s Note: We made two corrections to this podcast, originally released on December 3. In referring to the location of the Battle of Blair Mountain, we changed “Southwestern Virginia” to “West Virginia.” And on the origin of the term redneck, we inserted narration that makes clear that the etymology of the term goes back farther than the Battle of Blair Mountain.

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